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Staunton: Housing Authority building partnerships to build resilient community

Crystal Graham
Nehemias Velez Staunton Redevelopment and Housing Authority
Nehemias Velez. Photo courtesy Chris Lassiter.

The Staunton Redevelopment and Housing Authority is working to strengthen the community by focusing on educational achievement, food security and financial stability for its residents.

SRHA is partnering with other organizations and businesses, including Staunton City Schools, Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, Atlantic Union Bank, Blue Ridge Legal Services and James Madison University, to address critical needs in Staunton.

“These partnerships are a demonstration of our dedication to supporting the holistic well-being of our residents, extending far beyond just housing, to fortify our community,” said Nehemias Velez, executive director of SRHA. “We are grateful to have these trusted community partners to help us enhance the lives of our residents and build a thriving Staunton community.”

SRHA, in partnership with Staunton City Schools, has launched free tutoring services to students and families living at Farrier Court apartments. The support is taking place at the housing development twice a week, supported by two tutors provided by the school system through Title I funding.

The housing authority also launched a new partnership with the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank to provide emergency food assistance at Elizabeth Miller Gardens this month. The food bank is stocking the emergency pantry, ensuring residents have access to food.

Finally, SRHA is working with Atlantic Union Bank to teach budgeting tools to families. The bank offers workshops on budgeting, credit repair and long-term financial planning.

The housing authority has partnered with Blue Ridge Legal Services and JMU to present three seminars to provide education on tenant rights, obtaining housing, budgeting and financial planning, conflict resolution and legal issues and prevention.

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Crystal Graham

Crystal Graham

A 1999 graduate of Virginia Tech, Crystal Graham has worked for 25 years as a reporter and editor for several Virginia publications, written a book, and garnered more than a dozen Virginia Press Association awards for writing and graphic design. She was the co-host of "Viewpoints," a weekly TV news show, and co-host of "Virginia Tonight," a nightly TV news show, both broadcast on PBS. Her work on "Virginia Tonight" earned her a national Telly award for excellence in television. You can reach her at [email protected]

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